Brian Edward Culley

Brian Edward Culley, a devoted husband, father, grandfather, veteran, and community volunteer, passed away on December 29, 2025, peacefully surrounded by his family,

Brian was predeceased by his parents, Iva and Frank Culley, and his siblings Gwen, Wendell, and Jeremy. Brian is survived by his wife of 52 years, Barbara Culley; his children Leslie Culley-Nielsen (Erik Neilsen), Gayle Roberts (Jeremy Roberts) and Shawn Culley (Alana Green) and his beloved grandchildren Anna, Kate and Isla Nielsen and Lily and Freyja Roberts. He is also lovingly remembered by his extended family.

Born in St. John, New Brunswick, Brian was the youngest child of Iva and Frank Culley. The family eventually settled in Highland Creek, Toronto. Growing up he developed the strong work ethic, curiosity, and love of adventure that would guide him.

Family was always at the heart of Brian’s life. He married his true love, Barbara, in 1973, becoming a father in 1976 and a proud grandfather in 2005. Favourite family memories include winter ski seasons, summer camping trips, Disneyland, and countless family road trips filled with laughter and Brian’s beloved oldies playing on cassette tape.

Brian also loved sharing time on the water with family and friends aboard the family speedboat. He welcomed anyone who wanted to join, taught all of his children to waterski, and never missed a chance to show off his tricks.

Brian served in the Royal Canadian Airforce for 22 years as an Airframe Technician. During his career, he was posted to numerous locations across Canada and spent five memorable years living abroad in Germany. After retiring early, Brian returned with his family to the Comox Valley on Vancouver Island, where he began a second career building custom homes.

In the mid-1990s, Brian rekindled his love of skiing and became involved with the Vancouver Island Society for Adaptive Snowsports at Mount Washington. Brian served as President of VISAS, a role he took very seriously and with great pride. During his time, he was instrumental in commencing their annual Nautical Days fundraiser. Helping others experience the thrill of being on the slopes meant the world to him.

As his time on the ski slopes came to an end, Brian answered the call of the ocean. He took up sailing, purchasing his first sailboat, AnnaKate, and eagerly completing his sailing course. His love of sailing grew, leading him to purchase a second boat a wood vessel that he and a friend painstakingly restored as a passion project. Being on the water brought him deep peace and joy.

Later in life, Brian and Barbara embraced new adventures together when they purchased an RV affectionately known as The Green Hornet. As enthusiastic snowbirds, they spent several years exploring the southern United States and Mexico, enjoying the freedom of the open road, warmer climates, and the many friendships formed along the way.

Brian will be remembered for his kindness, leadership, quiet strength, and unwavering devotion to his family and friends.

A Celebration of Life will be held, Saturday January 10, 2026, from 2-4PM, at 888 (Stocky Edwards Wing) RCAF Association. 1298 Military Road Comox BC.